Governor Lalong presents Budget Estimates of N132.7Billion to Plateau State House of Assembly

“BUDGET OF RESCUE AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING” ,
A TEXT OF THE 2017 BUDGET PRESENTED TO THE PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF
ASSEMBLY BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE, RT. HON. SIMON BAKO
LALONG
The RT. Hon. Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly,
Honourable Members and Citizens of Plateau State.
Mr. Speaker and Honourable Members, about this time last year I
presented the “2016 Budget of Rescue and Hope” after series of
addressing critical components of governance. In fulfillment of Section
121 Sub-section (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria, as amended, the Governor is required to prepare and lay a
budget estimate before the House of Assembly. Accordingly, it is my
honour to address the Honourable Assembly for the sole purpose of
presenting the 2017 Budget of our dear State, the Home of Peace and
Tourism.
Permit me to start this address by thanking the almighty God for
bringing us to the end of this year and for keeping the House alive and
alert to its budgetary responsibilities. All of you will agree with me
that the year 2016 has been economically very challenging due to the
general economic recession in the country occasioned by a drastic fall
in National Income from various revenue sources. The attendant effect of
this is a drop in the allocation accruing to the state from the Federal
Government, which has been left at the mercy of Money Banks for the
servicing of debts that are owed by the State.
Despite these daunting challenges, we have remained focused in
delivering on the promises made to our citizenry and today in keeping
with the constitutional duty of office laying before you the proposed
estimates of the State for the 2017 Fiscal Year. Mr. Speaker, Hon.
Members, I recognize and commend your individual and collective sense of
Patriotism, Commitment and selfless disposition for service to your
constituents, despite the non-availability of financial resources. These
include your speedy passage of bills that led to our establishment of
Plateau State Medium Enterprise Development Agency (PLASMEDA), Plateau
Peace Building Agency (PPBA), Plateau State Primary Health Care
Development Agency (PLPHCDA), The Public Procurement Law, The Tax
Harmonization Bill and most recently passed the 2016 Supplementary
Budget, amongst others. These efforts have confirmed your commitment to
working in nexus with the Executive and be a part of history in our
collective pursuits of giving the best to the generality of our
citizens.
It is therefore our hope that as I present to you the programs of
this administration for the next year 2017, we shall together deliver to
our people the very best that our progressive partnership as members of
a Change Government on a Rescue Mission can offer.
REVIEW OF THE 2016 BUDGET PERFORMANCES.
Mr. Speaker and Honorable Members, it is necessary that I give you an
overview of the performance of 2016 budget before giving details of the
2017 budget.
You will recall I presented to this House last year a budget
christened “Budget of Rescue and Hope”. The underlying philosophy of the
budget was aimed at bringing our citizens from a state of hopelessness,
poverty deprivation to self-dependence. The 2016 Budget had a size of
One hundred and Forty-Six Billion, Six Hundred and Nine Six Million, One
Hundred and Eighty-Five Thousand, One Hundred and Eighteen Naira
(N146,696,185,118. 00) only. The budget was streamlined to address the
5-Policy Thrust of this Administration. Emphasis on the Budget was on
the completion of on-going projects and executing key interventions
under the Policy Thrust of the Rescue Administration. Details of our
modest achievements in the various sectors and under our five key policy
thrust were presented in my first year anniversary speech to the good
people of Plateau State on 29th May 2016. Permit me therefore to give
the highlights of the Capital Projects and Programs executed during the
year under review based on the Sectors for your kind acknowledgement of
the successes recorded, in spite of economic downturn.
WORKS AND TRANSPORT.
Despite the lean resources, this administration has kept faith with
its promise of completing the on-going road projects that were started
by the last administration. Some of the roads have been completed and
they include:
The Secretariat Junction Fly-over
Jos – Mazah road
Mangu-Gindiri-Lere –Kadunu-Bakin-Kogi-Foron
Federal Low-cost Housing Estate road Network
Dental Clinic-Dogon Karfe-Great Commission Headquarters Road Network
Zololo junction-Nassarawa Gwong Road
Work is on going on some of these roads while others within this
category have been mobilized for the continuation of work up to
completion. They include:
Dong-Rantiya-Gyel Road Network
Dualisation of Old Airport junction-Rayfield-Bukuru with Spur to Dogon Karfe-Kugiya-Gbandang and New Government House.
Construction of Kufang-Wildlife Park with Spur to D. Y. Bali and Bitrus Rwang Pam Road
Gungi-Shiwer-Dokpai with Spur to Tiplk
Foron-Bakin Kogi- Kadunu-Gindiri
Jos-Mazah-Angware-Buyo Road
Langtang-Garkawa-Yelwa-Shendam with Spur to Lalin
Dualisation of TAEN Junction-Bukuru-Yakubu Gowon Express way Kugiya –Rahol Kanang Junction
Mangu-Sabon Layi (COCIN Rehabilitation Center)
Construction of Rukuba Road Miango-Dochai with Spur to Nigerian College of Accountancy Vom-Farin Lamba-Kassa
Jengre-Amo-Katako Road
Pankshin-Lankan-Dyis-Sihin with Spur to Asa
Europharm-Dyei and Zaramganda-Mazaram Road Network
Shendam-Kalong-Shimankar Bridge
Construction and Resurfacing of Maraban Jama’a- British American Junction
Bassa-Binchi-Buyo with Spur to Zagun
Furthermore, additional contracts for the construction of 16 new road projects have been advertised and tendered for.
In addition, the Government released funds to restore electricity
supply to the State Secretariat Complex which armored cables and other
equipment were vandalized and stolen when the renovation of the complex
was being carried out.
The State Government also procured 14 number Hilux Vehicles for the
Ministry of Works and Transport for the effective Traffic Management and
revenue generation by the Vehicle inspection Office (VIO). Above all,
in the general administration, to consolidate on the peace and security
we have entrenched as well as enhance efficiency in governance, official
vehicles were purchased for the respective government appointees,
Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
This administration has completed the remodeling of the Plateau State
Governors Lodge at Asokoro Abuja, which was revoked and completed under
direct labour. The Lodge is now well furnished and put into use.
Similarly, under the new National Housing scheme or policy, the State
government has acquired 5-Hecters of land at Laminga, with compensation
paid and Land Tittles issued to the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and
Housing. A memorandum of Understanding has been signed with developers
under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Scheme, to Construct twenty
two thousand, five hundred (22,500) housing Units at Nine (9) Sites.
To keep our roads within the Township motorable and accessible,
Government procured 2-Road Patchers to be used in patching the roads in
the city, which are full of Pot-holes.
During the year under review, contract will soon be awarded for the
rehabilitation of 6km Angwan Rogo road Network in addition to many
others within the Jos and Bukuru metropolis to ease vehicle movement
within the Metropolis.
LANDS, SURVEY AND TOWN PLANNING.
This Administration has commissioned the Plateau Geographic
Information System (PLAGIS) project which has long been overdue. With
this, applicants are no longer denied Land Tittles as and the Process of
Securing title has been made less cumbersome with a 21 day delivery
period for process compliant applicants. The Government had also
magnanimously approved a downward review of the rates by 50% for Land
Tittles to encourage Land Owners get tittles for their Lands.
Government has also identified 4-Industrial Sites as contained in the
Greater Jos Master Plan for the development of an Industrial Layout. A
piece of Land has also been identified for a proposed Mass Housing Unity
layout at Naraguta, along Bauchi Road as part of Government’s proactive
Peace Building Measures.
ENVIRONMENT AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT.
The State Government released the sum of thirty million Naira
(N30,000,000:00) as counterpart fund to enable Plateau State benefit
from Erosion And Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) of the World
Bank. So far, the State has accessed the sum of Two Million Dollars
($2,000,000:00) for the programme to commence. The State has also wooed
Chinese Investors into the State seeking business opportunities in the
area of Solid Minerals , which is one of the three critical areas of our
New Normal and discriminating competences for self-sufficiency and
sustainability.
WATER RESOURCES AND ENERGY.
Government has continued to sustain its support to this sector,
realizing the fact that it is the bedrock for the socio economic
wellbeing of her citizenry.
The State Government released Counterpart Contribution for the
construction of 340 boreholes in Riyom and Shendam Local Government
Areas. This programme is being supported by the EU-UNICEF Project
through the Plateau State Water Board and Plateau Rural Water Supply and
Sanitation Agency (PRUWASSA). Furthermore, contract for the purchase of
assorted water treatment chemicals was awarded at the cost of One
Billion, Nine Hundred and Ninety Nine Million, Nine Hundred and Forty
Thousand Naira (N1,999,940,000.00). In addition, government released the
sum of N23,000,000.00 as assistance to victims of the last chlorine gas
explosion that claimed lives of people living around the Laminga
Treatment Plant.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.
During the year under review, government acquired and distributed
16,470 metric tons of assorted fertilizer to farmers at subsidized rate.
The total sum of Two Billion, Fifty Eight Million, Seven Hundred and
Fifty Thousand Naira (N2,058,750,000. 00) was used for this purpose to
ensure the availability of this essential farm input.
The sum of Eighty Million Naira (N80,000,000. 00) was released to
FADAMA III as arrears of Counterpart Fund for the 2014 and 2015 fiscal
years. This has facilitated the opening of a FADAMA Bank in the State,
and access to new Project grant for the Potato Value Chain.
To consolidate government’s desire in Human Resource Development and
training of Agricultural middle level manpower and extension services as
well as enable it meet part of the requirements for the Accreditation
of its programs, the sum of Twenty Million Naira (N20,000,000.00) was
approved for the College of Agriculture, Garkawa.
In order to guarantee food security as part of the Agricultural Value
Chain, Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) have been signed with some
companies for the setting up of storage facilities for fruits and
vegetable, milk packaging, diary/pigs, swine genetic center, poultry
processing plant etc. The Panyam Fish Farm is also being resuscitated
based on MOU signed with SOLBEC Nig. Ltd.
TOURISM, CULTURE AND HOSPITALITY.
In exploring of the great potentials of the State in the Tourism,
Culture and Hospitality Industry, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
has been signed between the Ministry and reputable Chinese Company (One
Belt One Road) for the development of some selected tourist sites in the
State such as ROCK International Hotel, Plateau Hotel, Jos Hotel, Jos
Wild Life Park and the Solomon Lar Amusement Park. The Jos Wild Life
Park has been able to acquire additional Crocodiles, Red-fronted
Gazelle, Derby Eland and Dwarf Cattle, beside the replacement of the
Lion which was killed as a result of an attempt to escape from the park.
YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT.
This administration has remained faithful to its obligations to the
National Youth Service Corps with the timely release of funds for its
operations and the provision of facilities at the camp.
There has been continued support to the Plateau United Football Club
which was able to gain promotion to the elite division during the
2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League. Mighty Jets Football
Club is also receiving the same attention. Work is also in progress at
the Ultra-Modern Stadium along the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Road
(Formerly Zaria Road). Work is being intensified and Government is
committed to completing the Stadium and to International Standard within
the shortest possible time.
EDUCATION.
Education as potent tool for Human Resource Development and in
garnishing our major policy thrusts will continue to be in the front
burner of this administration. Following the restoration of stability at
the Plateau State University with the overall governance restructuring,
the reconstitution at its Governing Council and release of over Three
Hundred Million Naira (N300,000,000.00), over 17 courses have been
accredited at the Institution. These have led to the University’s
graduates to being mobilized for the NYSC Scheme for the first time in
the eleven (11) years of the existence of the Institution.
The State Universal Basic Education Board has embarked on the
renovation and construction of Basic and Primary Schools across the
State. This was made possible with the release of One Million Naira
(N1,000,000.00) counterpart which drew over One Billion, Five Hundred
Million Naira (N1,500,000,000.00) to the Board.
The Rescue Administration has also remained committed to human
Resource Development with the payment of student’s scholarship
allowances through the release of over Two Hundred Million Naira
(N200,000,000.00) for the payment of allowances to students in higher
institutions spread across the Country.
HEALTH.
The health sector has also received the desired attention. In
addition to the aggressive renovation and construction of General
Hospital and Cottage Hospitals round the State, the State Primary Health
Care Development Agency fully took-off. Other achievements include:
Procurement of 5 ambulances which have since been distributed to General Hospitals in the State.
Release of funds to offset surgery bills of 10 children with heart defects.
Release of Twenty Eight Million and Seventy Three Thousand Naira
(N28,073,000.00) for the containment of Lassa Fever outbreak in the
State.
Commencement of full payments of Consolidated Medical Salary Scale
Structure (CONMESS) and skipping in career progression for Medical
Practitioners, with effect from September 2016 this industrial issue has
lingered for close to a decade, but with this it has now been laid to
rest.
Installation of Modern Diagnostic Equipments in the New Government House Clinic, Little Rayfield, Jos.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION.
Within the period under review, the Ministry introduced monthly Press
Briefing on the activities of this administration. This is in line with
the administration’s desired principle of ensuring accountability,
transparency and good governance and the need to carry the people of
Plateau along in governance. The Ministry has also signed a One Year
Retainer Ship with 5 Media Organizations namely; African Independent
Television (AIT), Silver bird Television, Radio Nigeria (Highland FM),
Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and unity FM, Jos for effective
coverage of Government activities and dissemination of information to
the public. During the year also, the state played the historical Role
of Piloting the Switch-over from analogue to Digital Television
Broadcasting. Over 200,000 pieces of set top boxes were distributed to
the people of the state.
THE 2017 BUDGET ESTIMATE.
Mr. Speaker, Honorable members, having recounted the journey so far
and the successes we have recorded under the Budget of Rescue and Hope,
in spite of its late commencement, our people have confidence that we
will deliver more of the dividends of democracy in the 2017 Budget. On
assumption of duty we met a virtually hopeless situation and
disillusioned people and rekindled hope in them, in the midst of limited
resources and competing demands. If we were able to move on this rescue
mission and gave hope as promised and demonstrated, it is only
auspicious that we instill and build further confidence in terms of
service delivery as we move into the mid-term of the administration by
May 2017.
Accordingly, Mr. Speaker and Honorable members, it is now my honour
to present to you the 2017 Budget, which is tagged “BUDGET OF RESCUE AND
CONFIDENCE BUILDING”. In this way, we will be building on the
confidence of the people and that their hearts should not despair or be
troubled as we adjust to new normal, build a new socio-economic and
political compact that will create opportunities for every Plateau
citizen who desires to lead a meaningful and productive life.
The 2017 proposed budget has a total size of One Hundred and Thirty
Two Billion, Seven Hundred and Two Million, Two Hundred and Ninety Six
Thousand, Two Hundred and Ninety Five Naira (N132,702,296,295.00) only.
The estimate is less than the approved budget for the 2016 fiscal year
with the sum of Thirteen Billion, Nine Hundred and Ninety Three Million,
Eight Hundred and Eighty Eight Thousand, Eight Hundred and Twenty Three
Naira (N13,993,888,823.00) only. The drop in the estimate is as a
result of continuous fall in the revenue accruing from the Federal
Allocation arising from the fall in prize of oil as well as the oil
output due to crisis in the oil region. This therefore means, we need to
make realistic projections to reflect the current economic realities.
RECURRENT REVENUE.
The Projected Recurrent Revenue is estimated at Seventy Five Billion,
Five Hundred and Fifteen Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand,
Nine Hundred and Fifty One Naira (N75,515,760,951.00) only. This consist
of Seventeen Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifteen Million, Seven Hundred
and Sixty Thousand, Nine Hundred and Fifty One Naira
(N17,815,760,951.00) only as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and
Fifty Seven Billion, Seven Hundred Million naira (N57,700,000,000.00)
only as Revenue from the Federal Government including Twenty Billion
Naira (N20,000,000,000.00) as Re-imbursement from the Federal
Government.
CAPITAL RECIEPTS.
The Budget Estimate is made up of a Capital Receipt of Fifty Six
Billion, Eight Hundred and Two Million, Seven Hundred and Sixteen
Thousand, Three Hundred and Ninety Eight Naira (N56,802,716,398.00),
consisting of Nine Billion and Nine Million Naira (N9,009,000,000.00) as
Value Added, Twenty Five Billion Naira (N25,000,000,000.00) Refunds
from Parish Club Loan deductions, Three Billion, Five Hundred and Sixty
Five Million, Seven Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand Naira
(N3,565,783,000.00) Draw Downs from Donor Agencies and Two Billion, Nine
Hundred and Seventy Two Million, Nine Hundred and Ten Thousand, Five
Hundred and Nine Naira (N2,972,910,509.00) for Grants and Contributions
from the Federal Governments and World Bank Assisted Projects.
The budget also has a deficit financing amount of Sixteen Billion,
Five Hundred and Eighty Seven Million, Eight Hundred and Forty One
Thousand, Eight Hundred and Thirty Five Naira (N16,587,841,835.00) only,
which will be drawn from both internal and external sources to augment
the revenue.
RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ESTIMATE.
The 2016 budget has a Recurrent Expenditure estimate of Sixty Eight
Billion, Four Hundred and Twenty Two Million, Six Hundred and Seven
Thousand, Two Hundred and Eighty Eight Naira (N68,422,607,288.00) only,
representing 51.56% of the total budget Estimate. The recurrent
expenditure estimate which is less than that of 2016 with 6.69% is made
up of the followings:
Personnel Cost Estimate – Twenty Three Billion, Nine Hundred and
Fourteen Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Seven Thousand and Twenty One
Naira (N23,914,887,021.00).
Overhead Cost Estimate – Twenty Five Billion, Four Hundred and Fifty
Seven Million, Seven Hundred and Twenty Thousand Two Hundred and Sixty
Seven Naira (N25,457,720,267.00).
Consolidated Revenue Fund charges – Nineteen Billion, Twenty Million Naira (N19,20,000,000.00)
This Present Administration will continue to accord priorities to
salary Payments, clearance of Pensions and Gratuities as well as the
release of overheads to Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for
effective service delivery by workers.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE ESTIMATE.
Mr. Speaker, Honorable Members, the Proposed Capital Expenditure
Estimate for the 2017 Fiscal Year is Sixty Four Billion, Two Hundred and
Seventy Nine Million, Six Hundred and Eighty Nine Thousand, Seven Naira
(N64,279,689,007.00) only, representing 48.44 percent of total budget
estimate. This is also less than the 2016 approved estimate with
N9,091,385,953.00 or 12.39 percent. The breakdown of the Capital
Estimate based on sectors is as follows:
ADMINISTRATION: Has an allocation of Thirteen Billion, Six Hundred
and Sixty One Million, One Hundred and Twenty Nine Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Twenty Eight Naira (N13,661,129,728.00) representing 21.25%.
ECONOMIC SECTOR: Has an allocation of Thirty Billion, Three Hundred
and Twenty Three Million, One Hundred and Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred
and Thirty Eight Naira (N30,323,108,738.00) representing 47.17%.
SOCIAL SECTOR: Has an allocation of Nineteen Billion, Five Hundred
and Eighty Two Million, Four Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand, Five
Hundred and Forty One Naira (N19,582,452,541.00) representing 30.47%.
LAW AND JUSTICE SECTOR: Has Seven Hundred and Twelve Million, Nine
Hundred and Ninety Eight Thousand Naira only (N712,998,000.00)
representing 1.11%.
At this juncture Mr. Speaker, I present the Sub-Sectorial breakdown of the 2017 budget for better comprehension.
EDUCATION.
This administration is determined to funding the activities of
Education which is very vital to economic growth. To this end, the sum
of Eleven Billion, Nine Hundred and Fifteen Million, Six Hundred and
Sixty Six Thousand and One Naira (N11,915,666,001.00) representing
18.54% of the capital estimate in the 2017 fiscal year is allocated in
the budget. Out of this amount, the sum of One Billion Naira
(N1,000,000,000.00) is earmarked for the completion of renovation work
of Fifteen Secondary Schools (5 in each of the Three Senatorial Zones).
Renovation of Technical College, Bukuru is allocated the sum of Twenty
Five Million Naira (N25,000,000.00). The three Science Schools under
renovation at Kuru, Mangun and Shendam are allocated the sum of Three
Hundred Million Naira (N300,000,000.00) for their completion, while Five
Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) is for equipping the renovated
schools.
The sum of One Billion, Five Hundred Million Naira
(N1,500,000,000.00) is allocated as counterpart fund for the renovation
of Primary and Basic Schools and the provision of desk and chairs across
the state. Furthermore, in our bid to improve the standard of higher
institutions, the sum of Five Billion, Eight Hundred and Ninety Seven
Million, Nine Hundred and Seventy Seven Thousand Naira
(N5,897,977,000.00) is earmarked for building of Administrative Block,
Faculties of Arts and Social Science, Library Complex, Multipurpose
Hall, ICT Center, Health and Agricultural Sciences, Life Sciences as
well as the construction of Road Network at the Plateau State
University, Bokkos.
Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi has the sum of Four Hundred and
Sixty Three Million Naira (N463,000,000.00) allocated for the building
of Entrepreneurial Centers, Landscaping, Building and Renovation of
Hostels and Staff Quarters and provision of other facilities. Also the
College of Education, Gindiri has an Allocation of Five Hundred and One
Million, Nine Hundred and Forty Three Thousand, Two Hundred and Eighty
Eight Naira (N501,943,288.00) as its Capital estimate for land
compensation, perimeter fencing, Landscaping and provision of the other
faculties. In the same vein, the College of Arts, Science and Remedial
Studies Kurgwi has an Allocation of Two Hundred and Seventy Two Million,
four Hundred and Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Nineteen Naira
(N272,404,419.00) in the Budget for Construction of Hostels,
Construction of Administrative Blocks, Renovation of Building and Part
Fencing of the College. Most critical too, Government will remain
committed to the payment of scholarship allowances to students in
Tertiary Institutions to reduce the burden on parents.
HEALTH
In our efforts to provide efficient Health Delivery Service to the
Citizen of the state, the sum of Four Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy
One Million, Nine Hundred and Forty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and
Twenty Six Naira (N4,371,943,726.00) only representing 6.80 percent has
been allocated for the 2017 fiscal year. This is in realization of the
on-going massive renovation work at the various General and Cottage
Hospitals and the completion of construction work at the new General
Hospitals in Riyom, Kanke and Mabudi. In addition, the upgrading of
General Hospitals Langtang and Pankshin will be given the desired
attention with the sum of Four Hundred and Forty Eight Million, Two
Hundred and Twenty Eight Thousand, Four Hundred and Sixteen Naira
(N448,228,416.00) allocated in the Budget. The sum of Eight Hundred
Million (N800,000,000.00) is earmarked for the procurement of Medical
Equipment and Furnishing of Secondary Health Care Facilities in the
State. A National Health Insurance Scheme for the State Civil Servant
will soon be implemented, while a Drug Distribution Center to serve as a
machinery for the control and regulation of Drugs in the State will be
established, with the sum of N150,000,000.00 set for the procurement of
the Drugs in that regard.
For effective Primary Health Care delivery in the state, the Primary
Heath Care Development Agency has taken off. Consequently, the sum of
Four Hundred and Twelve Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira
(N412,500,000.00) has been earmarked for the renovation of Primary
Health Care (PHC) Clinic in all the Local Government, acquisition of
Solar Energy and Power Bank for three PHC centers per Local Government
area, as well as the procurement of Ten (10) Hilux Vehicles for
distribution of drugs to PHC Clinics around the State and the
acquisition of Freezers for the storage of Drugs. Furthermore, we shall
intensify our efforts towards the promotion of preventive of Health
Care, side by side the curative measures in collaboration with our
development partners to strengthen the control of HIV/AIDs,
Tuberculosis, Polio, Malaria, Measles and other childhood killer
diseases.
In addition, the total sum of Three Hundred and Ninety Nine Million,
Seven Hundred Thousand Naira (N399,700,000.00) has been allocated to the
three Health Institutions in the State that is, Colleges of Health
Technology Zawan and Pankshin and College of Nursing and Midwifery, Vom.
WATER RESOURCES AND ENERGY.
Mr. Speaker, Honorable Members, we are aware of the fact that a lot
of resources have been sunk into the sub-sector in the past but without
any meaningful results. There will be a serious overhaul of the
sub-sector to ensure that our people have portable water both at rural
areas and in the township. Accordingly, the sum of One Billion, Nine
Hundred and Six Million, Nine Hundred and Ten Thousand Naira Only
(N1,906,910,000.00) has been estimated for this purpose in the Budget.
In realization of the huge resources being invested in this sub-sector,
the State Government will do everything humanly possible to ensure that
there is stable and potable water supply to our people through the
acquisition of enough water treatment chemicals.
In addition, the Plateau Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies
(PRUWASSA) has been allocated Three Hundred and Twenty Five Million,
Four Hundred and Thirty Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty Four
Naira (N325,437,984.00) as counterpart contribution to UNICEF for the
construction of boreholes in Riyom and Shendam LGAs.
On Energy and Power supply, there will also be massive
electrification of towns and villages along the 33KV and 11KV lines to
enable our people to enjoy the national Greed.
WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION.
Mr. Speaker and Honorable members, as a condition for Socio-Economic
Development of the State and confidence building in governance and
social services delivery, Government has already invested so much in
this sub-section. Our attention will still be geared towards the
completion of on-going road projects and the commencement of key once.
To this end, the sum of Sixteen Billion four hundred and eight
million Naira (N16,408,000,00.00) only is provided for the provision of
infrastructures within the rural and urban areas of the State. Some of
the major roads earmarked for completion in 2017 fiscal Year include:
Foron – Barkin Kogi – Kadunu Gindiri Road
Gunji – Shiwer – Dopkai with spur to Tiplik
Jos-Maza – Angware – Buyo Road
Building of Flyover and interchange, including underpasses at old Secretariat Junction
Reconstruction and Resurfacing of Maraban Jama`a and British American Junction Road.
Europharm – Dyei & Zarmaganda – Mazaram Road.
Pankshin – Lankan – Dyis – Sihin Road with Spur to Asa / Akong
Dualization of Old Airport Junction – Rayfield – Bukuru with Spur to
Dogon Karfe – Kugiya – Mbandang – New Government House, Jos.
Tahoss – Rim – Bachit Road.
Construction of Dong – Rantiya – Gyel Road
Building of Shendam – Kalong – Shimankar Bridge.
Construction of Kufang – Wildlife Park with spur – Domkat Bali & Bitrus Rwang Pam Roads.
Also, the State Government has advertised for the construction of 16
new roads within the State. These will commence during the fiscal year
and include:
Maraban-Demshin-Shimankar road with Spur to Shargan-Angwan Rina-Angwan Dadi-Kalong-Nyak
Dokan Tofa-Baáp-Kurgwi road with Spur to Lardang-Bwal-Kwoor-Tim
Shinkwam-Tungkus (Shendam Bye Pass) road
Wase-Kadarko-Dadin Kowa road
Dengi-Bashar-Gajin Bashar
Dengi-Kwalmiya-Dugup-Gagdi
Dawaki-Gyangyang-Seri-Amper
Lankan-Dyis-Kagu-Sihin
Mangu-Bye-Pass;
Kuba-Tenti-Maunga-Daffo;
Kpsho-Chakurum-Kogom-Vwang with Spur to Vom Vet;
Bet-Dorowa-Mazat-Kuba with Spur to Nding;
Tasho-Ganawuri with Spur to Dahreng;
Fobur-Naton-Fursa-Maijuju-Zandi road;
Wase-Mavo-Gimbi road;
Lohmak-Gazum with Spur to Kumkwam;
COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES.
The State Government is committed to improving commercial activities
in the state. To this end, the sum of four Billion, Ninety Nine Million
Six Hundred and Seventy Five Thousand Naira (N4,099,675,000.00) has been
estimated in the budget for this sub- sector.
The sum of Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) is for the
completion of the cassava processing plant; One Billion Naira
(N1,000,000,000.00) is for the acquisition of BARC farms that was sold
out some years back. The sum of One Hundred Million Naira
(N100,000,000.00) is allocated for the completion of Foron Fertilizer
Blending plant, while that of Bokkos will be reactivated.
The State Micro-Finance Development Agency, which was recently
created is allocated the sum of One Billion, Six Hundred and Twenty
Million, Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N1,620,300,000.00) for its
effective take off in the year’s budget. This will encourage the
establishment of small and medium scale Industries in the State, thereby
reducing poverty and encouraging self-reliance among Plateau people.
The State Government under the Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement
will be reconstructing the burnt down Jos Main Market, which used to be a
major revenue earner for the State. Traders will also be encouraged to
patronize the completed Rukuba Road Satellite Market to give way at the
terminus area for the construction work to commence. Already, a
transaction Advisor has been appointed for this purpose and the short
listing of Prospective Developers completed.
The Jos International Breweries (JIB) and the Highland Bottling Company
Barkin Ladi will also be reactivated through the PPP arrangement during
the fiscal year.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.
Agriculture is one of our most strategic New Normal and area of
discriminating competences against the dwindling oil revenue. In our
efforts to provide food security, sufficiency and employment to our
teeming populace, the sum of five Billion, one Hundred and Seventy Nine
Million Eighty Six Thousand Naira (N5,179,866,000.00) representing 10
percent of the total estimate has been allocated to this sub-sector. The
State will be spending the sum of One Billion, five Hundred Million
Naira (N1,500,000,000) on fertilizer subsidy, while One Billion, Two
Hundred Billion Naira (N1,200,000,000) is allocated for subsidy on
Tractors procurement, which will be distributed to farmers. The sum of
Five Hundred Million Naira Only (N500,000,000.00) has been allocated for
general livestock development in the State.
A memorandum of understanding (MOUs) has been signed with Greenlands
Integrated Agribusiness Limited for storage and packaging of fruits and
milky poultry processing plant, as well as SOLBEL Limited for the
resuscitation of the long abandoned Panyam Fish Farm with Two Hundred
Million Naira Only (N200,000,000.00) as Government contribution.
In addition, the Plateau State Agricultural Mechanization Services
Corporation has an allocation of Two Hundred and Ninety Three Million
(N293,000,000.00) in the budget. The College of Agriculture Garkawa is
allocated Three Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Five Hundred Thousand
Naira (N376, 500,000.00) and Plateau Agricultural Development Programme
(PADP) is given an allocation of Four Hundred and Twenty Seven Million,
Six Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand Naira (N427,683,000.00) for their
various agricultural programs in the State.
LANDS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
This sub- sector is allocated the sum of three Billion, Four Hundred
and Six Million, Seventy Two Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty Eight
Naira (N3,406,072,238.00) in the budget. With the commissioning of the
Plateau Geographic Information system (PLAGIS) and the reduction by 50%
of cost of Land title, more revenue will be generated for the State.
The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) is allocated the sum of
Five Hundred and Seventy Six Million (N576, 000,000.00) for the
rehabilitation of Urban roads in Jos/Bukuru metropolis and allocation
for the procurement of One (1) Lowbed and One (1) Excavator. Also,
township roads under construction and new ones to be initiated are
captured in the budget estimate. The sum of One Billion, Eight Hundred
and Seventy Million Naira (N1,870,000,000.00) has been allocated for
urban roads, namely,
Completion of Akila Machunga (Utonkon – Keana ) Road with spur to Abattoir.
Jenta Adamu with spur to Jenta Mangoro, Kabon and Tudun Wada.
PIPC Quarters Road – Anglo Jos – Domkat Bali road with spur to Channel Seven.
Kabong Satellite Market-Tudun Wada with spur to Mado Tourist Hotel and Sabon Gari.
Angwan Rogo, Dualization of Zaria Crescent and Tafawa Balewa Road.
Jos Bye-Pass Roads, Development and Designs.
The Directorate of Fire Service is allocated the Sum of Five Hundred
and Fifty Eight Million, One Hundred and Seventy Seven Thousand, Three
Hundred and Twenty Naira (N558,177,320.00) in the budget for the
procurement of Five (5) Brand New Mercedes Benz Foam Tanker Vehicles
with 5,000 Liters Water and 500 Liters Foam. The completion of the
building of Fire Service Headquarters and fire stations in Bassa Areas
remain priority of the administration in the fiscal year.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION.
To ensure efficient information management and dissemination, the sum
of One Billion, One Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Two Hundred and
Seventy Five Thousand, Two Hundred and Twenty Five Naira
(N1,176,275,225.00) is allocated to the Sector. Out of this amount, the
Plateau State Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) has an allocation of
Two Hundred and Forty Five Million, Four Hundred and Six Thousand Naira
(N245,406,000.00) for the installation of Solar Power/Inverter and the
building of permanent studio.
Plateau Printing Press (PPP) has an estimate of Three Hundred and
Thirty Two Million, Nine Hundred and Ninety Four Thousand, One Hundred
and Seventy Six Naira (N332,994,176.00) in the budget for the
installation of the newly acquired machines, renovation of building
complex and procurement of other machines like Computer to plate,
Jogging Machines, Numbering and Perforating Machines. We will ensure
that the machines procured are put to use by the agency.
Plateau Publishing Corporation (PPC) has an allocation of Five
Hundred and Thirty Six Million, Nine Hundred Thousand Naira
(N536,900,000.00) in the budget estimate. This amount will care of the
J.D. Gomwalk House and Standard Building and the bulk procurement of
consumables and vehicles for the distribution of their products. Just
like in PPP, necessary measures will be put in place to Commissioning of
the newly acquired machines into effective use.
TOURISM, CULTURE AND HOSPITALITY.
As a major source of revenue to the state, the sub-sector will be
given necessary attention in this budget. The sum of Three Hundred and
Thirty Two Million, Five Hundred Million Naira (N332,500,000,000) is
estimated in the budget for the completion of Indoor Theatre and the
Expansion and Rehabilitation of Jos Wild Life Park. In addition, the
Government is going into Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement
with a Chinese company to resuscitate Jos Hotel, Plateau Hotel, Solomon
Lar Amusement Park and The Rock International Hotel. Once this is done
with peace being sustained on the Plateau, the State will be a
destination for Tourists.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT.
The state is committed to keeping a healthy environment while the
exploration of her abundant mineral resources are done. To this end, the
sum of One Billion, One Hundred and Fifty Nine Million, Nine Hundred
and Eighty Six Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty Five Naira
(N1,159,986,485.00) is estimated in the proposed 2017 Budget; Of this
amount, Four Hundred and Fifty Severn Million, Five Hundred Thousand
Naira (N457,500,000) is allocated for Environmental Protection (Erosion
Control) and the procurement of solid waste Trucks as well as the
resuscitation of nurseries in the state. Dump sites will also be
acquired and developed for the dumping of refuse at Mista-Ali and
Nyango-Gyel. The monthly sanitation exercise will be sustained.
The sum of Five Hundred and Eighty Three Million (N583,000,000.00) is
estimated for the Mineral Development in the state, with the sum of Two
Hundred Million Naira (N200,000,000) estimated for the Recapitalization
of Plateau Mineral Development Company. We shall continue to partner
with Foreign Partners to improve our Investment Profiles in Mineral
Resources.
WOMEN, YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT.
This Administration is very concerned about this sub-sector and
desirous of creating more opportunities for Women Development in the
State. In view of this, the sum of One Hundred and Thirty Four Million,
Seven Hundred Thousand Naira (N134,700,000.00) is allocated for Women
and Children welfare programs in the Budget.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has an allocation of One
Billion, Four Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N1,450,000,000.00) in
the proposed budget. This amount will be used for the completion of NYSC
Permanent Orientation Camp, Completion of works at the Goodluck Ebele
Jonathan Road, Stadium and Others. For us to sustain the peace we are
currently enjoying, we shall continue to support and partner other clubs
and societies in the state.
ADMINISTRATION.
This sub-sector as the engine room of Government harnesses and
coordinates the day-to-day activities of the state. It facilitates the
activities that enhance productivity and efficiency in the Public
Service to achieve set objectives.
To this end, the sum of Nine Billion, Nine Hundred and Forty Million,
Four Hundred and Six Thousand, Two Hundred and Seventy-One Naira
(N9,940,406,271.00) is estimated for this purpose, representing 15.46%
of the Capital Budget. For this Government to achieve its 5 Policy
Thrust, this sub-sector has to be fully harnessed and the Civil Service
have to be fully mobilized with the provision of a conducive working
environment.
To further consolidate on the peace now being enjoyed in the state, a
Peace Building Agency has been created and is charged with the
responsibility of exploring all avenues for inter-religious and
inter-ethnic peaceful coexistence. The report of the Committee on the
Creation of Districts, Chiefdoms and village Areas will be carefully
studied and its recommendations implemented to give our people a sense
of belonging in the state.
Let me also mention that in order to ensure efficient administration
of Justice in the state, the new High Court Complex under construction
will be completed while more Courts that are in dilapidated conditions
will be renovated, while conditions of service in this sub sector is
enhanced.
COMMITMENT TO THE IDEALS OF BUDGET IMPLIMENTATION AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING.
Mr. Speaker and Honourable Members, let me reiterate that a Budget is
a statement of intent on spending and its success depends also on the
understanding and cooperation of the Citizens who are the stakeholders
and greatest beneficiaries. On the part of Government, we are resolved
to implement the budget to the best of our ability as we have
demonstrated in the past one year. However, we note that expeditious
considerations and passage of the budget will enhance early
implementation and improved performance rating that we desire to
achieve.
Given the enormous challenges of funds and to maintain strict budget
discipline, we have streamlined and prioritized vital projects along our
new normal, areas of competitive advantages and consultations that
arose from our Town Hall Meetings that will also touch every sector and
community. I reiterate our drive and assertiveness to block leakages
with a view to improve revenue. Be rest assured that in running our
Government on the core value of the fear of God, Justice, pursuit of
Peace, and Unity, we will strive to sustain hope and confidence for
sustainable growth through this BUDGET OF RESCUE AND CONFIDENCE
BUILDING.
CONCLUSION
Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, this Administration remains
committed to living up to the expectation of our people. We shall with a
sense of purpose, dutifully pursue the greater good of our people,
giving them the service that will enhance their socio-economic
well-being and guarantee their place in the Plateau of their dream.
Through the estimates in the 2017 budget, we intend to consolidate all
sectors of our economy so that good governance is felt by all who
reposed confidence in our ability to rescue.
Despite the serious economic recession in the country, our people
have demonstrated serious patriotism and understanding. Their sacrifices
have left us more burdened not to betray the mandate they have given
and for this we are determined to make life better for the citizenry and
make a difference.
While urging the Honourable House to diligently peruse and deliberate
on the budget, I look forward to speedy consideration and passage of
the 2017 Budget to enable us commence implementation and service
delivery from onset of the new year. In fact, with your timely scrutiny
and passage of the 2017 Budget, the confidence to consolidate on what we
have started will be further strengthened. I have no doubt that having
demonstrated good team work and competence in Legislative Duties in
almost two years of the existence of the 8th Assembly, you will be more
than willing to sacrifice time and synergize efforts on this assignment
for the good of the people.
While thanking you for your time, I wish to extend my best wishes for
meaningful Christmas Celebration and Prosperous New Year in advance.
It is now my Honour to seek the Permission of Mr. Speaker and the
Honourable Members of the House to lay the 2017 BUDGET OF RESCUE AND
CONFIDENCE BUILDING for Consideration and Passage into Law.
Thank you and God bless Plateau State.

Governor Lalong presents Budget Estimates of N132.7Billion to Plateau State House of Assembly
Reviewed by matthew tegha
on
15:21:00
Rating: 5